Written by Let’s take a trip around the world.
First up, Italy, where you enjoy long leisurely meals full of wine and laughter. Dining is viewed as an active pleasure in Italian culture. Italians spend double the time eating each day on average when compared to Americans. In experiencing this, you soak it in, socialize, and feel more relaxed.
Next, you hop south of the Mediterranean to Morocco, where you navigate through a market known as a souk. There, you haggle with shopkeepers over bits and bobs. You enjoy the “game” and the strategy involved.
A flight takes you to Rio de Janeiro, where you enroll in a samba class. It’s exhilarating to dance in this warm new style, taught to you by a pro.
You next travel to Japan, where you take part in a tea ceremony. You find the tradition fascinating and the emphasis on politeness admirable.
During this trip around the world, you were open to appreciating the customs and attributes of each culture – a trait that will greatly aid your cross-cultural integration
Admiration
We discussed the Colonial Superiority Complex and how it may be difficult for those from Western cultures to shed their ethnocentricity in order to see the value in other cultures.
But if you don’t try, you’re at a net loss.
Throughout history, the West has not always been economically superior to other cultures.
Muslim cultures, for centuries, were more scientifically advanced and economically powerful than European cultures.
In fact, Emperor Mansa Musa of Mali is considered by many historians to be the richest man in world history.
Neither Warren Buffet, nor Bill Gates could compete.
Mansa Musa lived during the 13th and 14th centuries and was so wealthy that he is said to have done his Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca flanked by a caravan of tens of thousands, some of whom hauled hundreds of pounds of gold for Musa to splash out on extravagances. He also spread his wealth across Africa in the form of educational centers and mosques.
In today’s money, his fortune is estimated to be around $400 billion. Comparatively, Jeff Bezo’s net worth is currently half that.
Asia’s Economic Growth
More recently, Japan’s economic growth in the ‘80s, with brands like Sony and Toyota booming, made America check their superiority complex at the door.
They faced competition on the global stage, prompting cross-cultural research on a scale never before seen.
Moreover, China’s rise over the last three decades shows that the West does not hold a monopoly over the global economy.
This is all to say that while you appreciate your own culture’s achievements and history, you should also recognize the achievements of other cultures.
Humanity’s heritage is woven with threads of the accomplishments, discoveries, and inventions of people from different backgrounds. All the world is an invaluable part of this tapestry.
Making an active effort to recognize this will put things in sharper relief for you – in a context more objective – and will ultimately aid your cross-cultural integration.
Success Across Cultures 